The Central Asians had gone into the game vying with Vietnam for second place in Group C but the latter’s defeat to group winners Thailand meant a place in the last eight was Kyrgyzstan’s for the taking.

In the end they got the result they needed but Mukanov admitted the match was a little too close for his liking.

“The game turned out a very good one for the fans but we could not wait for it to end,” he said.

“Five minutes before the end we realised there was a chance we would not get our goal and so we concentrated on attack and prevented space for our opponents.”

Kyrgyzstan will play Japan in the quarter-finals and Mukanov knows his side will have to be at their best to beat the East Asians.

“We will play Japan, who I think are the best team in the tournament in terms of organisation.”

Korea Republic coach Lee Chang-hwan drew upon the positives to come from the tournament as they finished bottom of the group with just one point from three games.

"First of all, I would like to thank the organising committee and the AFC for this tournament,” he said.

"I am satisfied with a draw. We did not have any goals for this tournament as we have a young team, which has now gained experience. We plan to perform well at the next tournament.”

Surprise for Thais as Mandez slams squad

Meanwhile, Thailand coach Jose Mandez warned his side to cut out making simple mistakes or else they will struggle to progress beyond the quarter-final stage.

The Thais beat South East Asia rivals Vietnam 5-2 at Uzbekistan Sports Complex as they finished top of Group C with three wins from three.

"We had a very bad game and I’m ashamed of it,” said Mandez.

“The only positive aspect of today’s game is only that we are in the next round.

“We need to seriously think that before the next match and make sure we do not repeat the mistakes that we made.”

Vietnam coach Sergio Gargelli praised the effort of his players despite the defeat ending their campaign.

“A win over Thailand was almost impossible,” he said.

“We fought hard and the win over Korea Republic had kept alive our hopes to the last game. Therefore we have not failed in the tournament as a whole.”